Road rules

Whether in marriage or parenting, whether in the workplace or in relationships with friends, the believer is committed to a higher standard. People of integrity always keep their word. 

It is the loyal love of God that keeps us safe and secure. People may fail us. Some may go back on their commitment. Some may break a promise. But God never does. As Christians, our eternity is settled. And that gives us the freedom to live.  

Don’t try to blame others or rationalize. Own up to what you said or did and replace selfishness with kindness. When you do, you are benefiting yourself…and others. 

So, here’s the question—are you chasing after the right things? Things that will last for eternity. Things that will honor God. Things that will point people to him. If you are not running in the right direction, chances are you’ll end up at the wrong destination. 

Want to win favor with God? Want to enrich your marriage? Develop a heart of love and faithfulness, then let it flow through your life. At the end of the day, you will be welcomed home by God, and your children will have a godly legacy to follow. 

God is not worthy of our leftovers. We should worship him with the firstfruits—the best—of our time and money. This proverb reminds us that God blesses obedience.

To live a life that is spiritually healthy, our heavenly Father must always be at the head of the line. We must jettison our own wants and desires and live in obedience to him. True wisdom begins when we embrace both God and his instruction. Only our heavenly Father always knows best.

Many trails will be tempting, inviting, alluring, and even fun…for a while. But they are all regrettable dead-ends. Follow the Leader. He will keep you on the straight path…all the way to your final destination. 

These two qualities are the essence of a person who follows hard after Jesus. “Bind them around your neck” to guide your actions. “Write them on the tablet of your heart” to guide your inner person. Love and faithfulness must saturate our thoughts, desires, and actions.